According to the French paper Le Figaro, the terrorist group picked up two stray dogs in Baghdad and sewed explosives inside them, intending to put them on a U.S.-bound flight (apparently, a lot of stray Iraqi dogs are adopted by animal-rescue groups and U.S. troops). The plan didn't work, but the harrowing tale should serve as a wake-up call to all dog owners: Al-Qaeda could recruit your dog at any time. Here's how to tell if your dog has a bomb sewn inside itself:

Is your dog dead? Al Qaeda's plot failed when the soldiers working at the airport noticed that the bomb-carrying dogs had died. Throw a ball toward your dog. Does he run after it? If not, he is likely dead, and you should contact the police immediately.

Is your dog making any odd noises? Place your head near your dog. Can you hear a ticking noise? This is almost definitely a bomb. Call your local army recruitment office.

Is your dog becoming sullen and withdrawn? Your dog may have been radicalized by al-Qaeda or another group. Check your web-browsing history. Has your dog been visiting jihadist websites and message boards? If so, call the local F.B.I. office right away.

Is your dog on fire? One of the most telling signs of an explosion is fire. Even if your dog is on fire for a non-explosive reason, this is a serious issue. Douse your dog in water and contact your local fire department.